Chewing on nonissues dogs politicians

Pignanelli: This was a brilliant move for Huntsman. He garnered national attention and saved the state some dollars, at the cost of angering some state employees. Apparently there is grumbling in the ranks of government workers (I have encountered several). Some told the media they expressed approval to pollsters to avoid potential retribution. This is a nonissue because the public isn't bothered by the change (until they need something on a Friday). The fear of Huntsman seeking vengeance is clearly overblown; he's not that kind of guy. (My ethnic background suggests a strong understanding of "vendettas" — which for Huntsman is just another type of Italian food)

Webb: The vast majority of state employees will quickly adjust and love having a three-day weekend. The big challenge for Huntsman and state managers is to see that productivity among state workers doesn't decline. Taxpayers expect a full 40 hours of work in four days instead of five.

At a time in a tough economy when many private-sector companies are struggling and employees are working harder and boosting productivity, it would be highly improper for state workers to fritter away the extra two hours of work Monday through Thursday.

1st District Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, has been lambasted repeatedly for accepting over $20,000 in contributions from nuclear storage facility EnergySolutions.

Pignanelli: Utah politicos were shocked by this news. Not by the amount or donor, but by the fact that Bishop was actually fundraising. Bishop hates soliciting contributions as much as media attention and teachers unions.

Webb: Almost any politician in the country could be criticized for taking campaign contributions from specific industries or

interest groups. Bishop has consistently been supportive of the nuclear power and radioactive waste industries (both of which are crucial to our economic well-being). It's natural that those industries would support him. By congressional standards, Bishop is low-key, cheap and not much of a target for do-gooders and watchdogs. He lives modestly and runs modest campaigns.

During the primary, John McCain and Mitt Romney exchanged nasty insults. Thus, some believe McCain will not select him for VP.